Connectors

Description
In some circumstances mechanical connectors provide a lower cost and/or enabling advantage compared to the welded joints usually used for pipelines.  For example, mechanical connectors (that were assembled by divers) were used for the 2 km long 24" Harding export line to save the cost of mobilising a dedicated laybarge.

Mechanical connectors allow a high speed of make-up and do not require post make-up inspection by radiography. This is because the reliability of the connection can be assessed by virtue of quality control applied to the make-up procedures. The use of mechanical connectors for J-lay is particularly attractive because of savings in make-up time allowing more rapid lay rates. In addition, mechanical connectors allow difficult to weld materials, such as 13% chrome, to be joined.

Jee technology and experience
Jee has been working in this field for many years and has accumulated experience and developed technological solutions in the following areas:

• Development of test procedures: Main contractor on low cost pipeline connectors JIP. This looked at the suitability of premium drilling connectors and other connectors for pipeline applications. The JIP evaluated:
• Pipeline loadings.
• Testing procedures development.
• Practicalities of installation.
• Assessed the potential for connectors for pipe-in-pipe.
• Developed ISO code for testing of connectors for pipeline applications: Jee led the steering group and built on the experience gained within the JIP to develop the test procedures.
• Feasibility study: for on-shore pipeline system using non-weldable corrosion-resistant alloy and connectors.
• R&D: Design and development of a diverless connector tool.

• Feasibility: assessment of performance capability and cost effectiveness for use in offshore pipeline installations.
• FEED: specification of connector testing requirements, including fatigue, to meet project requirements.
• Technical support: arrange testing and ensure compliance with specification.
• R&D: modifications to spool design and development of diverless connector tools.